API 512V 500 Series Discrete Microphone Preamp Reviews
The API 512v 500 Series mic pre gives you all the features - and legendary sound - of the 512c, with a couple of valuable additions. First, API fitted the 512v with an output level control just below the input gain knob. This gives you more control over level-matching, which you'll especially appreciate if you work in a DAW-based studio. It also streamlines your setup, eliminating the need for 3rd-party attenuators. The second enhancement is the addition of a 3:1 output transformer tap switch, again, giving you more control over your gainstaging. Want more vintage iron in your sound? Tap the 3:1 button and you'll immediately lower your output level, so you can hit the transformer harder on the input side. The 512v also features a new combo input jack. In all other respects, the 512v is identical to the 512c - every inch a classic. At Sweetwater, that's what we expect from API.
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Highest Rated Reviews
Killer API sound. Sick!
This is one of my favorite 500 pre's. 90% of the time sits are my Bass tracking pre but sometimes I use it on vocals. The sound is killer. drop in the 3:1 nickel and rock it.
THE BEST! If you have a 500 Series Rack. It's a Must!
This Module sounds incredible. I brought mines in 2021, and it has changed my mixes in ways I could not imagine. This morning I was hearing some of my previous mixes [Comparing & Contrasting] and I just had to leave a review... I understand that many utilize this piece of gear mainly for drums/Guitars... But I ran my whole Mix thru it and it just Sounds Beautiful... Yes! Even the vocals. I am currently utilizing two of these as [Line Inputs L/R] coming out of a Dangerous Audio 2BUS 16 channel "Summing" Box. What I noticed is the instant Clarity and Mid-Range Presence. I also noticed that the details were pristine, clear, and slightly wider with more definition.. Trust me, You will notice any errors within your mix. One thing that stood out is that they are "Punchy" and the Dynamics are retained. There is NO slight compression at all... within any of the Frequencies. These Modules contain that Tonal character that gives 'API' their Name. The coloration Sounds Nice. This specific Module [512 V Version] contains input and output knobs, which is something that the previous version [API 512 C Version] did not have. What this allows you to do, is Tone shape the Classic API Sound by pushing it harder and avoiding distortion by lowering one of the knobs. The unit also contains an option 3:1 button in case you want to add further aggression like Smashing Drums. Another thing that stood out and lead me to place them after my Summing and Before my A/D's, is the fact that you can push these Babies LOUD without distorting your Sound. This is something I couldn't do with other 500 series units that I utilized in the past. If you want an example of how these sound... Tune in to Classics like [Purple Haze or All along the Watch Tower by Jimmy Hendrix]... Of Course with all of the modern Clarity that your current DAW provides. I finally understand why API is top of its class and within the same Range as Neve and SSL. Always Remember certain Modules are Transparent while certain Colors sound slightly... This one colors API Style...
API 512v
I finally obtained 4 of these for my studio. They definitely have that API weight and sound. I actually use them as signal processors for in the box mixing, so the output gain control is a plus for line input signals. So far they work on anything but I like these the most on drums!
U Da 1
Absolutely love this preamp. Easily achieves the DI guitar and bass tones I'm after. Recently migrated to the API 512v for the sound and 500 series form factor from an Aurora Audio GTQ2. The GTQ2 is a phenomenal preamp in its own right, but I've preferred the 512v in most applications. Excited to use this ol' boi for a long time to come.
API pre amp vs UA plugns
I use Universal Audio(UA)for my interface. UA makes amazing pieces of equipment. You can not go wrong with the Universal Audio gear. I have analog and digital gear from UA. I even have the API universal Audio plugins.
OK, comparing the 512V preamp to the plugin, they are just not the same. The 500 series 512V is much richer, more clear, and has more of the tonal qualities you get with an analog API mixing board. The UA plugin is quick and easy and accurate. The plugin has a very good sound and is adjustable in many ways. You will not be disappointed with the plugins. Having said that, I always use the 512V because to me it is richer and has a better tone.
I use the 512 V on most all vocals and acoustic guitars. Coupled with a 525 API compressor you will get fantastic results. I can not say enough about it.
If you are using UA or waves or any other plugins you may be missing the true feel of API analog tone. If you have the cash buy it. I just works.
API 512 V
For the last two years I've been trying to decide on this pre I have some really good pres in my rack but seems like every studio I see on line everyone has two or more so I bit the bullet and purchased this pre and now I see and hear why this preamp is everywhere.Its just a very good preamp and sounds good on everything more so drums and electric guitars, this is now my favorite pre and I will get second one in the near future.Thanks Sweetwater you guys are the best!!!
Dont hesitate
I would give this thing 6/5 stars if I could.
I first fell in love with api at school when they had two consoles with API 212's.
Extremely open and has so much clarity and punch. I now work at EastWest in Hollywood and we have a rack of the 512c's. Nothing against Neve or SSL. But API has a lot more clarity and punch. This shines on drums and brings out the best in vocals. I bought a couple for my home studio and I reamp so many different things through it and it instantly sounds better. Its night and day. If your hesitating, just go ahead and buy it. You'll thank me later.
Dessert Island Mic Preamp
I'm in love with my 512vs. I bought a pair of them and I've been trying to stay objective, but they sound amazing on just about anything. With the variable output you can get a clean and crisp sound or really drive them for an aggressive punchy sound. They sound amazing on any percussion, but work just as well on acoustic instruments, vocals and as a electric DI. Would highly recommend this preamp, it's quickly becoming my favorite.
If you only need one get this one
I've had/tried most high end pre's and this is my fave. I am a fan of API pres because they keep transients while still sounding full. I have a bunch of 512c's (which I love) but I prefer this new one. You can push it and then push it more and thicken it up with the 3/1 switch.
Preamps at this price (and higher) are mostly good. It deserves a 5 though because it sounds great on everything I run through it. It's a great DI box and API is a great American company to deal with.
